10 Things to do in London, Ontario
By admin Thursday, June 5, 2014
10 Things To Do in London, Ontario
London, Ontario is a great place to visit; just off the 401 highway, it is easily accessible and once you’re there, there are lots of things to do and see! Here are a few to start you off. Check out www.summerfunguide.ca for loads more!
1. Visit Wortley Village
Wortley Village is a paradise within a city. Hidden in Southwest London, Wortley is a haven for anyone who finds it. The old-school coffee shops, unique arts and artists, and restaurants are located within the historic, 19th century style neighbourhood. Visit the shops, grab a bite, or best of all: go for a walk through the quaint and alluring village.
2. Experience life as it was in the 19th century
Spend a day at Fanshawe Pioneer Village. See original buildings and daily demonstrations of life as it was for the community int he 1850’s and listen to stories told by costumed interpreters. Sometimes you can even hitch a ride on a wagon pulled by horses or a vintage tractor
3. Take the whole family & stay in affordable suite-style rooms
There is a unique appeal in getting away for a few days to explore a new city and staying in a newly built, suite-style university residence. Great location and sometimes a better deal than a hotel, they offer comfort & amenities at affordable prices. Try out Western Bed & Breakfast to live on Western University’s campus at Ontario Hall, or find other University residences across Ontario at StayRCC.com.
4. Visit a Museum
London has some first-rate museums to see – as a former candidate for the capital of Upper Canada, it is steeped in rich history. Museum London is great for an art-lover. For a more interactive experience, visit the London Regional Children’s Museum. Tour the Banting House to see where Frederick Banting came up with the idea for insulin.
For a complete list of Museums, Galleries, and Historical Sites in Southern Ontario: http://www.summerfunguide.ca/southwestern-ontario/museums-galleries-historical-sites.html
5. Be a Kid Again
The thing about attractions for kids is that they are for everyone. You’re going to be there with your child, so why not enjoy yourself too? Storybook Gardens, with games, play areas, and gardens (of course), is a nice outing for you and your young kids. Go to Kids Expo at Victoria Park for exciting rides, live game shows, and varied food choices
6. Catch a Sporting Event
London is a big city with a small town’s feel. That bodes well for sporting events. The London Knights, who play in the Ontario Hockey League, have a professional feel, but a minor league’s charm. For an even more intimate sporting experience, go see one of 30+ Western or Fanshawe teams. Another great part of spectator sports in London? Inexpensive tickets.
7. Festivals
With that combination of big city and small town auras, London festivals are an enticing draw. Spend a day experiencing new things, whether it’s culinary, musical, or creative. The Home County Music & Art Festival has spent 40 years becoming a premier Canadian music, art, and food festival with some of Canada’s best emerging artists. Get international with the Fiesta London! Mexican Festival.
For Festivals, Events, and Shows in Southwestern Ontario: http://www.summerfunguide.ca/festivals-events-shows.html
8. Food Events
London has a couple of special food events that are worth attending. London Ribfest has 100 food booths, a beer garden, and rides. The farmers’ markets in London are spectacular. Open every Saturday, the Western Fair Farmers’ and Artisans Market, located downtown, is the place for chefs, cooks, and foodies alike looking for artisanal products for their creations.
9. Theatre
The theatre is of a high quality. Get enraptured in the world of intriguing characters and stories. Learn about other cultures and lives. Most practically, go out for a night of fun at the theatre. The Grand Theatre showcases a variety of live theatre for children and adults. Centennial Hall regularly gets superior acts. Go to the Classic Theatre Festival to see classic hits of Broadway and the London stage.
For more Theatre and Performing Arts in Southwestern Ontario: http://www.summerfunguide.ca/southwestern-ontario/theatre-performing-arts.html
10. Find Something for Everyone
Sometimes in a family of four, you want to do six different things. When that is the case, a great solution is to do everything. Try East Park, which has a waterpark, go-karts, batting cages, bumper cars, a jungle gym, a driving range, a full golf course, and more. A place with that many options should be enough to bring everyone together for a day of fun.
Visit http://www.londontourism.ca or http://www.summerfunguide.ca/southwestern-ontario.html for more great ideas and enjoy London, Ontario!
By Kevin Jacobs, June 2014 email: kevintedjacobs at gmail.com
Photos courtesy of: http://www.freedigitalphotos.net